If Im the Big East, I put the squeeze on Yukon in making them join, they have all the leverage. Have them sign some kind of absurd buyout agreement otherwise youre just stetting yourself up to be left at the altar again.

From Yukons perspective, I would almost ask that the BE mandate that they drop FB to 1AA as a condition of joining. At least that way, CT can pass the blame elsewhere (not out decision to drop) and finally get out of the disaster that the FB program has become. I think deep down they know that they cant survive as IND and dropping to 1AA is probably more attractive than joining CUSA or the MAC (at least they can play regional rivals like URI/Nova/Ivy's which are similar talent level). At this point, the only reason to keep FB and continue to lose millions each year is the hope of a P5 invite, which is exactly what the BE must guard against if they're going to throw them this lifeline.

While I see no real clear path forward until maybe something breaking loose in 2025. IMO, UConn is in slightly better shape than UMass and NMSU. Better basketball means there will be some cache to playing them. Sure, they will get pasted once or twice a season by an SEC school in a buy game and 4 or 5 no names. But the schedule will probably wind up more intriguing to fans and with the bowl games going up again will have a shot for a post-season. No chance in a conference where everyone except Tulane has a stronger commitment to football.

As far as AAC, I look at Army first, but they'll say no. Then I try UAB despite their recent issues. Actual fanbase in a real market and competitive at basketball. The FI/AU inflate their size with online attendance. And the Miami market is much more fair weather.